Frequently Asked Questions
 Do you fill Rx prescriptions?
We can supply nonprescription lenses, with clear, colored, photochromic and polarized lenses, as well as basic readers up to +3.50 diopters via the internet. Persons requiring prescription glasses, bifocals , etc., can bring their Historic EyeWear Company spectacle frames to their local Ophthalmic professional to have their prescription filled.
 
Do you accept insurance?
We do not accept insurance but will furnish a receipt clearly stating "Frames for Rx" which you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. There are many types of policies and coverage varies from one to another, so it is best to call your company and verify that they will reimburse you for an out-of-network purchase.
 
Do you have reading glasses and if so what strengths do you carry?
Yes, for an additional cost, we can supply you with reading lenses in any of our Historic EyeWear Company frame styles. Available in six magnifications: +1.00, +1.50, +2.00, +2.50, +3.00,+3.50.

Do you offer sunglasses?
Yes, at an additional cost we can supply UV filtered colored / tinted lenses, photochromic and polarized lenses. We recommend sunglasses for maximum eye protection. To quote Dr. Jack Prince, OD, Doctor of Optometry and a clinical associate with Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute: “ I see the ill effects of ultraviolet radiation on my patients’ eyes every day: cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium or surfer’s eye,an abnormal growth on the white of the eye and photokeratitis (sunburned eyes).  I tell my patients to protect their eyes using sunglasses and I make sure to wear them too.  The one thing I look for is that they’re 99 to 100% UVA and UVB absorbing”

I have antiques spectacles, will you put new lenses or do you make repairs on old eyewear?
No, we do not.
 
Can your eyewear be worn everyday?
Yes, all our eyeglass frames are designed for daily use.

What are you eyeglass frames made of?
Nineteenth century spectacles were typically constructed from a variety of materials. Frames made during this period included those of gold, silver, German silver, brass, plated, tortoise shell, blued steel wire and common steel wire. Today these materials are rarely used in the manufacture of eyeglasses. Our spectacles are constructed of an alloy known as Monel, a metal alloy commonly used in the manufacture of modern eyeglass frames that has a lengthy, proven track record for reliability. To capture the patina of original antique spectacles we use a high quality electroplating process coupled with a hypo-allergenic protective clear-coat finish.
 
What is the significance of your spectacle model designations?
The numeric designation signifies the period of widespread popularity and common use. The color designations represent historic locations. Colors were carefully chosen to represent the originals they were modeled after, both new and with the patina of age.

    • Tombstone Silver Dust models period coin silver as new
    • Virginia City Gold Dust models period 8k-10k gold spectacles
    • Leadville Tarnished Silver models period coin silver with the patina of age
    • Naugatuck Valley Tarnished Brass models period brass spectacles with the patina of age
    • Silver City Silver models high purity silver.
    • Bethlehem Blued Steel models period blued steel spectacle frames

How do I know what size eyeglass frame size is right for me?
The best way is to closely match your Pupillary Distance with the frame PD. See information contained on this website. Click on this link  to take you to the page:  http://www.historiceyewearcompany.com/page/20/about-our-spectacles

What if I order frames from you and they are too small of too big?
Return them in original condition for an exchange or refund.
You pay return shipping and we will refund the original purchase price or exchange them for a different style or size.